Basil: "Genovese" is good but so are "lemon," "Thai" and "purple."

Cucumbers: "Lemon" and "Armenian" are winners.

Eggplant: Sun-loving eggplants are easy to grow. Try "Italian white" and "Turkish orange" for something different.

Peppers: If you like it hot, plant "Thai" and tiny "Bird's Eye" chile peppers Be sure to plant in a sunny, south-facing location.

Tomatoes: A spring garden has to have tomatoes. Try "Zapotec," "Marvel Stripe" and "Brandywine," the classic heirloom variety.

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